Japanese Tea Introduced to U.S. Bar & Restaurant Industry at World Tea Expo 2025 | UNIVA America
UNIVA America exhibited at World Tea Expo 2025 in Las Vegas, the largest tea-focused trade show in the United States, to support the U.S. market expansion of Wakohen Co., Ltd..
The event provided a key platform to introduce Japanese tea to buyers, distributors, and professionals in the café, restaurant, and hospitality industries.
Introducing Japanese Tea Cocktails to U.S. Buyers
In collaboration with the Japan Ochawari Association, UNIVA America presented a new way to enjoy Japanese tea through “ochawari” (tea-based cocktails).
The booth featured six original tea cocktails made with Wakohen’s premium teas. To bring these concepts to life, UNIVA America partnered with Kilala Barns, who developed the recipes by highlighting the unique flavor profiles of each tea.
At the Tea Bar, live presentations introduced not only the taste but also the health benefits of tea cocktails—an approach that strongly resonated with attendees.
Expanding into the U.S. Bar and Restaurant Market
As the World Tea Expo was held alongside the Bar & Restaurant Show, the booth attracted a wide range of industry professionals, including café owners, tea retailers, bartenders, and restaurant operators.
This created a valuable opportunity to position Japanese tea as a versatile ingredient within the U.S. food and beverage market, beyond traditional tea consumption.
Through this exhibition, UNIVA America supported Wakohen in:
- Introducing products to U.S. buyers and hospitality professionals
- Creating new use cases for Japanese tea in cocktails and beverages
- Generating qualified leads and distribution opportunities
- Expanding into bar and restaurant sales channels
Award-Winning Japanese Tea Recognized for Quality
Wakohen’s teas were also entered into the prestigious Grand Tea Champions competition, where they underwent a rigorous judging process.
The brand received awards in three categories, demonstrating the high quality and craftsmanship of its products:
- 🏆 Leaf Teas Origin Awards (Japan): Ryokucha Densetsu Kiwami
- 🏆 Superior Awards – Superior Liquor: Kakuhori Fukamushi Sencha
- 🏆 Premium Awards – Green Tea Steamed: Ryokucha Densetsu Kiwami
Driving Growth Through Follow-Up and Distribution Expansion
Following the success of the event, UNIVA America is conducting strategic follow-up with leads generated during the exhibition, focusing on expanding distribution channels into the U.S. bar and restaurant industry.
UNIVA America continues to support Japanese brands entering the U.S. market through exhibition strategy, localized sales support, and business development.
